Longer Ray5 is an innovative and powerful laser engraver, available in 5w, 10w, 20w and now even 30w versions. Depending on the type of laser module with which it is equipped, Longer Ray5 can perform various types of processing on various materials, but one feature is always in common, namely the absolute accuracy in the execution of the processes. 
Sometimes, however, strange effects can occur, similar to those present in the image below; in these cases, it is necessary to fine-tune your machine, so as to obtain maximum performance. 

Usually, this problem is due to a poor installation of the belts and eccentric wheels, so it is necessary to proceed with a more accurate installation. 

First, completely disconnect all the connectors of the Longer Ray5, then remove the connection cable. 

Once this is done, squeeze the belt as shown in the figure. The belt must be hard, resistant to pressure. If, on the other hand, it is soft, then it is necessary to put it under tension. 

In order to tension the belt, unscrew the T-nut as shown in the figure, then pull the belt with your hand. Keeping the strap under tension with your hand, continue to pull and simultaneously screw the T-nut tightly to secure the strap in place. 

Repeat the belt tension operation in the same way for the other side of the Longer Ray5 frame. 

Finally, make sure that the sync wheel is perfectly in line with the belt. To do this, unscrew the Sync Wheel latch as shown in the figure, then put the Sync Wheel in line and secure the latch. 

At this point, check the wheel eccentrics as well. The wheels equipped with an eccentric nut are the lower ones. With your finger, try to rotate the wheel; If but wheel slip, you need to tighten the eccentric nut of the wheel. 

Gradually tighten the eccentric nut of the wheel, gradually checking that the wheel no longer slips. Do not tighten the eccentric nut too much, but stop as soon as the wheel no longer slips. 

Do these for both the left and right sides of Longer Ray5. 

At this point, the installation has been successfully completed for the Y-axis of Longer Ray5. However, you also need to check the status of the X-axis, which is the axis that moves the laser module. 

Following the steps above, first check the X-axis belt, tightening it if necessary. After that, also check the eccentric nut of the wheel, as shown above. 

Once the tuning has been successfully completed for both the Y-axis and the X-axis, Longer Ray5 will have correctly acquired its reliability and accuracy, and therefore it will be possible to obtain precise and dimensionally correct engravings and cuts for a long time.  
Periodically, always check the belts and eccentric nuts, so as to keep the reliability of Longer Ray5 constant over time. 

Installing a camera on your laser engraver can significantly improve positioning accuracy and workflow efficiency. This Longer camera installation guide walks through the installation process in a beginner-friendly format so you can properly set up and use your camera system without confusion.

Whether you are engraving wood, acrylic, leather, or custom projects, proper camera installation helps reduce alignment errors and saves setup time.

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Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• What This Guide Covers
• Why Longer Camera Installation Matters
• Before You Start
• Requirements
• Precautions
• Step-by-Step Longer Camera Installation Guide
• Common Problems and Solutions
• Tips for Better Results
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts

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Quick Answer

A properly installed laser engraver camera helps improve material positioning and job alignment. Follow the original Longer camera installation process exactly, including mounting location, connection methods, and software configuration steps.

Do not change settings or procedures from official instructions. Correct positioning and calibration directly affect engraving accuracy.

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What This Guide Covers

This tutorial explains:

• Required items before installation
• Camera mounting preparation
• Installation workflow
• Important setup notes
• Common issues and troubleshooting
• Expert tips for better results
• Frequently asked questions

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Why Longer Camera Installation Matters

Many users manually align materials before engraving. This can be slow and may cause:

• Material placement errors
• Repeated positioning attempts
• Wasted materials
• Longer production times

Adding a camera system provides a live workspace view that can help with:

• Faster material positioning
• Improved engraving consistency
• Reduced setup time
• Better workflow for batch production

For users running small businesses, this becomes even more valuable because reducing setup time can improve productivity.

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Before You Start

Requirements

Prepare the following before installation:

Hardware

• Longer laser engraver
• Longer camera kit
• Included mounting accessories
• Connection cables
• Fasteners included in the package

Software

• Longer software or required machine software
• Camera setup files if provided

Workspace Requirements

• Stable working surface
• Adequate lighting
• Sufficient installation space

If any required information is missing:

Follow official machine specifications or instructions.

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Precautions

Before beginning installation:

⚠️ Turn off the machine before connecting hardware.

⚠️ Avoid placing cables where moving machine components can interfere.

⚠️ Do not force connectors into ports.

⚠️ Ensure the camera lens remains clean during installation.

⚠️ Avoid changing any original software settings not mentioned in official instructions.

⚠️ Keep installation hardware organized to avoid missing parts.

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Step-by-Step Longer Camera Installation Guide

Step 1: Prepare Installation Components

Action:

Unpack the camera kit and verify all included components.

Check:

• Camera module
• Mounting hardware
• Connection cables
• Fasteners
• Accessories

Expected Result:

All required items are present and undamaged.

Important Notes:

Missing components can interrupt installation later.

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Step 2: Locate the Camera Mounting Position

Action:

Identify the specified mounting location according to the original installation instructions.

Expected Result:

The camera location provides a clear view of the engraving workspace.

Important Notes:

Camera placement directly affects:

• Workspace visibility
• Positioning precision
• Calibration quality

Do not modify mounting locations unless instructed.

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Step 3: Install the Camera Bracket

Action:

Attach the camera bracket according to official instructions.

Secure all fasteners properly.

Expected Result:

The bracket remains stable without movement.

Important Notes:

Avoid over-tightening screws because this may damage components.

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Step 4: Mount the Camera

Action:

Attach the camera to the installed bracket.

Ensure the camera orientation matches official instructions.

Expected Result:

The camera sits securely and faces the working area correctly.

Important Notes:

Incorrect orientation may affect later calibration.

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Step 5: Connect Cables

Action:

Connect the supplied cables according to the installation guide.

Route wires neatly.

Expected Result:

All cables are securely connected.

Important Notes:

Avoid:

• Tight cable bends
• Loose connectors
• Cable contact with moving machine parts

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Step 6: Power On and Verify Camera Detection

Action:

Power on the machine and launch the required software.

Verify that the software recognizes the camera.

Expected Result:

The camera feed becomes available.

Important Notes:

If the camera is not detected:

• Check cable connections
• Restart software
• Follow official machine specifications or instructions

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Step 7: Perform Camera Configuration

Action:

Complete required software configuration according to official procedures.

Expected Result:

Camera functionality becomes available for workspace viewing.

Important Notes:

Do not alter menu names, settings values, or configuration procedures.

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Helpful Resources

You may also find these related guides useful:

For machine setup and workflow improvement:

• Learn laser engraving basics: Longer Official Website
• Review engraving workflow tutorials: Longer Academy
• Explore laser project ideas: Longer Laser Academy

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Common Problems and Solutions

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Tips for Better Results

1. Keep the Camera Lens Clean

Dust buildup can reduce image quality and affect alignment precision.

2. Use Consistent Lighting

Changing light conditions may affect workspace visibility.

3. Check Hardware Regularly

Machine vibration during long use can loosen fasteners.

4. Keep Cables Organized

Neat cable routing reduces accidental disconnection risks.

5. Test Before Starting Large Projects

Run a small test job before beginning important engraving work.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How to install a laser engraver camera for beginners?

A: Follow the original installation process step by step. Do not change mounting positions, settings, or procedures.

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Q: Why is my laser camera image blurry?

A: Common causes include dust on the lens, incorrect focus, or improper installation positioning.

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Q: Can I change the camera mounting location?

A: Only use the mounting location specified in official instructions.

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Q: Why is my software not detecting the camera?

A: Check cable connections and verify that all hardware is installed correctly.

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Q: Does camera installation improve engraving accuracy?

A: A properly configured camera can improve positioning efficiency and reduce alignment errors.

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Q: Is a camera necessary for laser engraving?

A: A camera is optional but can improve workflow speed and positioning convenience.

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Q: What is the best laser camera setup for engraving accuracy?

A: The best results come from correct mounting, stable hardware installation, and following official setup instructions.

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Final Thoughts

Completing the Longer camera installation guide correctly helps create a smoother and more efficient engraving workflow. Proper mounting, secure connections, and following the official setup sequence are critical for achieving reliable results.

After installation, test the camera with small engraving projects and verify that positioning behaves as expected.

For more laser tutorials, troubleshooting resources, and machine guides, explore additional resources from Longer support and training materials.

Installing a laser enclosure correctly is important for both safety and workspace cleanliness. This Longer B1 enclosure installation guide walks through the complete installation process in a beginner-friendly way while preserving the official assembly sequence.

A properly installed enclosure helps reduce smoke exposure, improve airflow, minimize dust, and create a cleaner engraving environment. If you recently purchased a Longer B1 enclosure, this guide explains exactly what happens during installation and what to expect at each stage. Information is based on official installation instructions.

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Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• What This Guide Covers
• Why Longer B1 Enclosure Installation Matters
• Before You Start
• Step-by-Step Longer B1 Enclosure Installation Guide
• Common Problems and Solutions
• Tips for Better Results
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts

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Quick Answer

The Longer B1 enclosure installation process involves assembling the frame using Beam 1, Beam 2, Beam 3, corner clips, hook clips, lighting components, fan brackets, silicone sheets, and the exhaust system.

The most important details are maintaining the official assembly order and ensuring the exhaust tube is connected to an outdoor ventilation path after installation.

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What This Guide Covers

This tutorial explains:

• Required components and preparation
• Safety precautions before assembly
• Complete enclosure installation steps
• Fan and exhaust installation guidance
• Common setup problems
• Tips for improved airflow and usability

By the end of this guide, you should understand how to assemble the enclosure and prepare it for operation.

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Why Longer B1 Enclosure Installation Matters

Laser engraving and cutting can generate:

• Smoke
• Fine particles
• Odors
• Airborne debris

The Longer B1 enclosure was designed to help direct fumes away from the workspace through an exhaust system and improve operating conditions. The enclosure also helps reduce smoke spread inside indoor environments.

Benefits include:

• Cleaner working environment
• Reduced smoke exposure
• Better airflow
• Reduced dust accumulation
• Additional protection from stray light

For Class IV laser devices, controlled operating environments are strongly recommended.

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Before You Start

Requirements

Prepare the following:

Hardware

• Longer B1 enclosure kit
• Beam 1 components
• Beam 2 components
• Beam 3 components
• Corner clips
• Hook clips
• Lamp
• Fan brackets
• Fan
• Silicone rubber sheets
• Plastic connector
• Exhaust pipe
• Longer B1 laser engraver

Knowledge

• Basic understanding of component identification
• Workspace preparation

If component information is incomplete:

Follow official machine specifications or instructions.

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Precautions

Before beginning installation:

⚠️ Work on a flat surface.

⚠️ Keep all parts organized before assembly.

⚠️ Do not force clips into position.

⚠️ Verify beam labels before installation.

⚠️ Ensure adequate workspace around the enclosure.

⚠️ Keep the laser disconnected during installation.

⚠️ Connect the exhaust system to an outside ventilation area after assembly.

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Step-by-Step Longer B1 Enclosure Installation Guide

 

Step 1: Connect Beam 1 with Beam 2

Action:

Connect all "Beam 1" components with their respective "Beam 2" components.

Expected Result:

Individual Beam 1+2 assemblies are created.

Important Notes:

Make sure beam identification is correct before continuing. Incorrect identification may affect later steps.

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Step 2: Form the First Square Frame

Action:

Take four Beam 1+2 assemblies and connect them with corner clips.

Expected Result:

A square base frame is formed.

Important Notes:

Check alignment before fully securing connections. 

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Step 3: Install Vertical Beam 3 Components

Action:

Vertically engage four Beam 3 components.

Expected Result:

The frame begins forming its vertical structure.

Important Notes:

Ensure each beam sits securely.

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Step 4: Form the Upper Square Frame

Action:

Connect corner clips and create another square using four Beam 1+2 components.

Expected Result:

The enclosure frame structure becomes complete.

Important Notes:

Avoid twisting the frame.

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Step 5: Attach Hook Clips to Beam 3

Action:

Take a Beam 3 component and attach a hook clip to both ends.

Repeat four times.

Expected Result:

Four Beam 3 assemblies with hook clips attached.

Important Notes:

Ensure hook clips are fully seated.

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Step 6: Connect Beam 3 with Hooks

Action:

Connect the four Beam 3 with hooks.

Expected Result:

Secondary support structure completed.

Important Notes:

Maintain even alignment.

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Step 7: Attach Hook Assemblies to Beam 1+2

Action:

Connect hook clips to two Beam 1+2 ends and attach them to the frame.

Expected Result:

Hook-supported structure is attached.

Important Notes:

Do not force connections.

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Step 8: Install Lamp Clips

Action:

Attach two metal clips to lamp ends.

Expected Result:

Lamp prepared for installation.

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Step 9: Install Lamp onto Structure

Action:

Connect the lamp to the structure.

Adjust the distance between the vertical Beam 3 parts if necessary.

Expected Result:

Lamp installed correctly.

Important Notes:

Small spacing adjustments may be required.

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Step 10: Install the Cover

Action:

Install the enclosure cover.

Pay attention to fan outlet position.

Expected Result:

Cover installed correctly.

Important Notes:

Incorrect orientation may affect airflow.

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Step 11: Install Fan Brackets

Action:

Install fan brackets.

Expected Result:

Fan mounting position prepared.

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Step 12: Install Silicone Rubber Sheet and Fan

Action:

Install silicone rubber sheet and fan outside the cover.

After fan installation, insert another silicone rubber sheet.

Expected Result:

Fan and sealing structure completed.

Important Notes:

Do not omit silicone components.

 

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Step 13: Install Plastic Connector and Exhaust Pipe

Action:

Install plastic connector.

Connect the exhaust pipe.

Expected Result:

Ventilation system becomes operational.

Important Notes:

Connect the exhaust tube toward outdoor airflow.

 

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Step 14: Place Longer B1 Inside Enclosure

Action:

Place the Longer B1 machine inside the enclosure.

Expected Result:

Installation completed.

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Common Problems and Solutions

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Tips for Better Results

1. Assemble components in a spacious area.
2. Organize clips and beams before beginning.
3. Verify component labels before connecting.
4. Keep the exhaust tube as straight as possible.
5. Inspect fan installation before operation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How to install Longer B1 enclosure for beginners?

A: Follow the official assembly sequence exactly. Start with Beam 1 and Beam 2 assemblies, create the frame, install supports, then complete fan and exhaust installation.

---

Q: Why does my Longer B1 enclosure have poor smoke extraction?

A: Check whether the exhaust tube is connected correctly and directed outdoors.

---

Q: Can I change the installation order?

A: No. The official installation sequence should be maintained.

---

Q: What should I do if some information seems missing?

A: Follow official machine specifications or instructions.

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Q: What is the purpose of the silicone rubber sheets?

A: They help create proper sealing around the fan assembly.

---

Q: Is the Longer B1 enclosure necessary for indoor use?

A: The enclosure helps reduce smoke spread and improves air handling inside indoor environments.

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Final Thoughts

Completing a Longer B1 enclosure installation is relatively straightforward when the official sequence is followed carefully. The enclosure helps create a cleaner operating environment and supports more effective smoke management.

For additional setup resources, explore related Longer guides:

• Longer B1 firmware update guide
• Longer B1 lens cleaning tutorial
• Longer B1 camera installation instructions
• Longer B1 rotary roller installation guide

For model-specific details or accessory information, follow official machine specifications and support documentation.

Ray5 5w-10w-20w, which one is better for you?

The Longer Ray5 Laser Engravers are versatile tools that allow you to engrave and cut a wide range of materials with precision and speed; the powers currently available for Longer Ray5 are 5W, 10W and 20w (also available in 30W laser head). This comparison will explore the key differences between these three models, helping you choose the one that best suits your needs. 

Laser Module Power
One of the factors to take into account is the laser power, measured in watts (W), which is important to consider when choosing a Laser Engravers, as power determines the cutting capacity and processing speed of the laser. 
a) Longer Ray5 5W is ideal for beginners and engraving projects on thin materials such as wood, metal, leather and acrylic and many more. The 5W power is sufficient for most home engravings and offers high accuracy thanks to its ultra-fine spot compression of 0.08mm x 0.08mm.
b) Longer Ray5 10W offers more power, allowing you to cut thicker materials and work faster. This module is suitable for projects that require a little more power than the 5W model, but still remains accessible for home use.
c) The Longer Ray5 20W is a more powerful model, ideal for cutting materials up to 15mm thick and for jobs that require a higher cutting speed. This laser module is perfect for advanced users and professionals who work with more resistant materials and need greater efficiency, so it is a valuable ally both in the home and in professional environments with mass production

Working speed
Working speed is another crucial aspect to consider. All three Longer Ray5 models reach a speed of 10,000 mm/min, but the power of the laser affects the actual cutting and engraving speed. The 20W model, thanks to its higher power, can complete projects faster than the 5W and 10W models, also reducing the number of passes during the cutting phase. 

Workspace
The workspace is another important feature. All three models offer a working area of around 400 x 400 mm, which means that all models are suitable for projects of similar size, but the 20W model allows you to make more use of the area as it can carry out extensive machining in less time. 

Variety of materials
Each Longer Ray5 model is designed to work with a variety of materials, but the power of the laser determines which materials can be cut and engraved more or less effectively. The 5W model is ideal for materials such as wood, metal and acrylic, while the 10W model can handle the same materials but with greater thickness when cutting. On the other hand, the 20W model increases the processing possibilities, as it is perfect for very thick and resistant materials, such as wood up to 15 mm, aluminum, glass, stainless steel, leather, and many other materials typical of the professional field.

Engraving accuracy
The accuracy of the engraving is another factor to consider. All three models offer high accuracy; in particular, the 5W model turns out to be a good compromise between quality and price, but the 10W model is particularly appreciated for its ability to emit a laser beam with an ultra-fine spot of 0.06 mm x 0.06 mm, excellent for detailed engravings. On the other hand, the 20W model, thanks to its greater power, can easily obtain engravings on tough materials such as stainless steel, and expresses its full potential during cutting operations. 

In conclusion, the choice between the Longer Ray5 5W, 10W, and 20W Laser Engravers depends on your specific needs. For a beginner, the 5W model is a good option to start this hobby. For greater power and processing speed, the 10W model is a good option and certainly the most recommended in the home. On the other hand, for more demanding jobs and thick materials, the 20W model is the ideal choice, especially for professional use. 

This guide provides essential steps for avoiding vibrations when using chucks on the Longer Nano. When engraving curved surfaces, chucks are used to secure cylindrical objects for rotational engraving. If the chuck is not properly adjusted, vibrations may occur during engraving, which can distort the design.

In LONGER's Nano series laser engraving machines, particularly the LONGER Nano Pro 12W, the structure of the galvo scanning marking head is composed of XY scanning mirrors, field lenses, galvos, and computer-controlled marking software.

The Longer Nano Series, including the Nano Pro 12W and Nano 6W, is a compact yet powerful laser engraving solution designed for portability and versatility. Its streamlined connectivity system relies on USB Type-C interfaces, enabling stable power delivery and reliable data communication in a simple plug-and-play setup.

However, not all USB Type-C cables are created equal. Differences in power handling, data speed, and internal construction can significantly affect device performance and safety. Therefore, when replacing a cable for your Longer Nano device, it is essential to select one that fully meets the required specifications.

Understanding USB Type-C Cable Differences

USB Type-C has become a universal standard for modern electronics, covering charging, data transfer, and power delivery across devices such as smartphones, laptops, and professional equipment. Despite its standardized connector, cable capabilities vary widely.

1. Power Delivery Capacity

One of the most critical factors in Type-C cables is their voltage and current rating:

• Low-power cables: typically support 5V at low current, suitable for small accessories like earbuds
• High-power cables: support up to 5A current and higher voltages up to 20V
• Fast-charging cables: designed for USB Power Delivery (PD) standards, enabling significantly higher power output

USB PD technology can deliver up to 240W of power, allowing efficient charging and operation of high-demand devices such as laptops and professional tools. The system dynamically negotiates power levels between the device and power source, adjusting voltage (commonly 5V, 9V, 15V, and 20V) to match real-time requirements.

2. Data Transfer Capabilities

Not all USB-C cables support high-speed data transmission.

• Some cables are charge-only, with no data transfer capability
• High-performance cables compliant with USB 3.1 Gen 2 can achieve speeds up to 10Gbps

For applications involving firmware updates, file transfer, or device communication, high-speed data support is essential to ensure stable performance and efficiency.

3. Build Quality and Electrical Stability

Cable construction directly impacts safety and performance. High-quality USB-C cables typically feature:

• Thicker conductors for improved current handling
• Reduced electrical resistance for better efficiency
• Reinforced shielding to minimize interference
• Durable connectors for long-term reliability

Thicker and better-engineered cables help prevent overheating under sustained high-power operation, which is particularly important for devices requiring stable energy input.

4. Certification and Smart Cable Features

When selecting a replacement cable for the Longer Nano Series, it is strongly recommended to choose cables that are:

• Certified for USB Power Delivery (PD)
• Compliant with USB 3.1 or higher data standards
• Manufactured by reliable, certified brands

Some advanced cables also include built-in power displays, allowing users to monitor real-time wattage output. This can be a useful indicator of charging stability and compatibility with high-performance devices.

Recommended Cable Selection for Longer Nano

To ensure optimal performance and safety, users should choose USB Type-C cables that meet the following criteria:

• Support USB Power Delivery (PD) fast charging
• Comply with USB 3.1 Gen 2 or higher standards
• Capable of stable high-current transmission (up to 5A)
• Built with high-quality materials and reinforced connectors
• From certified and reputable manufacturers

Using the correct cable ensures consistent power delivery, stable data communication, and reliable engraving performance for the Longer Nano Series.

Conclusion

While USB Type-C has become a universal standard, its performance varies significantly depending on cable design and certification. For the Longer Nano Pro 12W and Nano 6W, selecting a properly rated PD-compatible and high-speed data cable is essential for maintaining stability, safety, and optimal engraving performance.

Choosing the right cable is not just a matter of convenience—it directly impacts the reliability and efficiency of your entire workflow.

The LONGER Ray5 and LONGER B1 laser engravers are capable of engraving and cutting a wide range of materials with high precision and efficiency. However, achieving optimal results requires careful adjustment of processing parameters—particularly laser power and engraving speed, as different materials respond uniquely to laser energy.

Understanding Material Response to Laser Settings

Materials react differently when exposed to laser energy. For metals in particular, variations in power output and movement speed can significantly affect the engraving outcome.

By fine-tuning these parameters, users can achieve different surface oxidation levels and heat effects, which can produce subtle color variations on metal surfaces. This controlled thermal interaction is the foundation of multicolor laser engraving on metal, a technique widely used in decorative and industrial applications.

Both the LONGER Ray5 (5W) and LONGER B1 are capable of metal engraving. However, the B1 offers superior stability and higher power capability, making it more suitable for advanced applications such as multicolor metal engraving.

Using LaserGRBL for Parameter Optimization

To achieve precise and repeatable results, LaserGRBL provides a built-in tool called Power vs Speed Test, which allows users to quickly identify optimal engraving parameters for specific materials.

Step 1: Access the Power vs Speed Test Tool

From the LaserGRBL main interface:

Select:

Generate → Power vs Speed Test

This will open the parameter configuration window.

Step 2: Configure Power Settings

LaserGRBL uses a scaled power system:

• S-10 = 1% power
• S-1000 = 100% power

For testing purposes, it is recommended to define a power range such as:

• Minimum: 100
• Maximum: 1000
• Step size: 10

This allows fine-grained control over laser output for accurate material testing.

Step 3: Configure Speed Settings

Next, define engraving speed based on material type:

• Wood: approximately 3000–9000 mm/min
• Metal & steel: approximately 100–1500 mm/min

A recommended configuration is to use 7 steps for balanced testing coverage.

Step 4: Set Line Density (Quality)

The engraving resolution can be adjusted using line density settings:

• Recommended range: 8000–12000 lines/mm

Higher values result in finer detail but longer processing time.

Step 5: Generate the Test File

After configuring parameters, click:

“Create!”

LaserGRBL will generate a test pattern combining multiple power and speed combinations for evaluation.

Step 6: Export and Run the Test

To proceed:

1. Select File → Save (Advanced Option)
2. Export the generated file as G-code
3. Transfer it to a microSD card or device storage
4. Run the test on the LONGER Ray5 or B1

Alternatively, the test can also be executed directly via USB connection using the Cutting Test mode, if preferred.

Step 7: Analyze Results and Optimize Settings

After completion, carefully inspect the engraved test pattern. The variations in tone, depth, and clarity will help determine the most suitable combination of power and speed for your specific material and desired effect.

This calibration process is essential for achieving consistent high-quality results, especially in advanced applications such as metal marking and multicolor engraving.

Conclusion

By leveraging the Power vs Speed Test in LaserGRBL, users of the LONGER Ray5 and B1 can efficiently identify optimal engraving parameters for different materials. While both machines are capable of metal engraving, the B1 provides enhanced performance and stability, making it the preferred choice for precision-driven and multicolor metal engraving applications.

The technology behind color laser engraving varies by material but primarily relies on two core methods: first, the natural generation of color through oxidation reactions; second, the use of coloring agents to achieve the desired color effects. This research is about how to use Longer Nano Pro 12W to engraving color laser.

Principle of Laser Color Engraving
For color laser engraving on stainless steel, the techniques are mainly divided into two categories: the first involves the laser beam instantaneously heating the metal surface, triggering physical or chemical reactions that alter the surface color. The second involves the formation of colored oxides on the metal surface or the generation of a transparent, colorless oxide layer, which displays various colors through thin-film interference effects. By precisely adjusting key parameters such as laser power, engraving speed, spacing, and the number of passes, users can effectively control the reaction depth on the metal surface, achieving a variety of color effects to meet different processing needs.

Engraving Parameters for Color Engraving on Stainless Steel
How to Use Nano Pro to Test Parameters for Different Colors on Stainless Steel? This color engraving parameter guide is based on the LONGER Nano Pro model, using stainless steel as the metal material.

With the "Material Test" function in LightBurn software, the preparation process for engraving parameter test files is significantly simplified. Users can enter relevant parameter ranges in the "Material Test Generator" to automatically generate test files. Key parameters include Power, Speed, Interval, and Passes; these combinations directly affect the resulting colors after engraving. By setting appropriate parameter ranges based on the specific dimensions of the material, users can generate the corresponding engraving test files.

The operation process is illustrated as follows: first, launch the LightBurn software, import the configuration file, select the correct COM port, and load the Nano Pro machine configuration. When the console displays "Nano Pro connected successfully," click "Laser Tools" in the toolbar to continue.

Lightburn dashboard

In the second step, as shown in the image, after clicking "Laser Tools" in the toolbar, select the "Material Test" function. The system will pop up the matrix parameter settings interface. Here, users can set the required matrix parameters for testing. For the Nano Pro model, the recommended parameter range is Power 50% to 100%, Speed 1000 mm/min to 3000 mm/min, using an 11x11 matrix layout. Ensure all parameters are set correctly, then click "Start" to initiate the engraving test.

After the engraving test is complete, the system will generate a colorful matrix (as shown in the image). Users can select their desired color from the matrix and find the corresponding laser power and speed. The horizontal axis of the matrix represents the power parameters, while the vertical axis represents the speed parameters, allowing users to easily determine the required engraving settings by matching coordinate positions.

How to Create Colorful Engravings
Open LightBurn software, click File -> Import to import the layered image file into LightBurn, and then connect to the Nano Pro machine.

How to Create Colorful Engravings
As illustrated, we import the image and perform layer separation on the vector image:
1. First, select the part of the vector image to be engraved.
2. Click in the lower right corner to set Layer 1.

How to Create Colorful Engravings 1
3. As shown in the image, we set the butterfly part as a layer.
4. Next, set Layer 2.

How to Create Colorful Engravings 2
5. As shown in the image, select the central part of the butterfly.
6. Then, set Layer 3.

How to Create Colorful Engravings 3
Finally, we obtain the complete layered vector of the butterfly, as shown in the image. We then match the corresponding parameters for the desired colors. Once completed, engraving will yield the desired colorful image.

How to Create Colorful Engravings 4
We end up with a blue butterfly.

Precautions for Nano Pro Color Engraving on Stainless Steel
Minimum Power
It is crucial to note that when engraving stainless steel, the power must be maintained at over 50%. Power below 50% may result in colors that are too faint, with the engraving primarily yielding a single yellow color. The engraving effect is closely related to laser power, making precise adjustment essential for achieving the ideal color.

Minimum Thickness and Surface Finish of Stainless Steel
During the engraving process, overly thin stainless steel plates may deform due to heat accumulation. It is recommended to choose stainless steel plates with a thickness of at least 2 mm. Additionally, for surface treatment, it is advisable to use matte or brushed stainless steel for better engraving results. Industrial-grade stainless steel plates or mirror-finished stainless steel are not recommended, as these materials may not perform optimally in laser engraving.

Ensure Engraving is Level
When using the recommended engraving parameters, ensure the laser is accurately focused and that the Nano Pro device is placed level. If the focus height is incorrect, it will directly impact the uniformity and accuracy of the engraving colors. Therefore, it is essential to calibrate the focus height before each operation to ensure the best engraving results.